Shimla is one of the most beautiful places in India and undoubtedly, it has become a summer destination and honeymoon stoppage for young couples over a period of time. Blessed with monumental mountains, lush green vegetation, picturesque landscapes and soothing waterbodies, Shimla is one place which caters to the needs of every type of traveller. From historical places to natural marvels, it harbours everything. It is also home to several offbeat spots that surprise every tourist and traveller. One such place flourishing within its boundaries is Book Cafe. Let's move ahead and learn more about this unconventional cafe and why it is gaining popularity amongst tourists.

A Little About The Cafe And The Prisoners

Book Cafe is located in Shimla in the vicinity of Meena Baazar above the ridge and is run by four prisoners of Kaithu Jail who have been given a life sentence. The cafe is funded by the tourism department of Himachal Pradesh and offers its customers a wide variety of snacks and beverages.

The cafe was constructed with a motive of rehabilitating the prisoners and bringing them a normal and healthy life. An amount of about 20 lakh rupees was invested in inaugurating it. The prisoners serving here are Jai Chand, Ram Lal, Raj Kumar and Yog Raj.

They have been taught by professional chefs so they can serve their customers well. Once the cafe is closed after 9 pm, all the prisoners are taken back to the cell.

Why You Should Visit It

Unless you have seen such cafes and have been served by the criminals who are trying hard day and night to change their lives, Book Cafe is your destination. From pizzas to cookies and other snacks to beverages, the cafe offers its customers with a large variety of options to savour. Undoubtedly, clear from its name, it also provides you with a large collection of books.

Surrounded by misty mountains and lush greenery, you can enjoy the picturesque vistas of Shimla while sipping on a cup of tea or coffee. Wouldn't you love to do that? Apart from relishing the natural surroundings and the beautiful ambience of the cafe, you can also mingle with these convicted criminals and learn from their experiences.

Don't you think a visit to Book Cafe will be a unique experience which you cannot savour everywhere in India? If yes, then add Book Cafe on your bucket list now. It is cent percent sure that you will be back home with a handful of everlasting memories once you have visited this unusual cafe.

How To Reach Book Cafe

By Air: You can take a direct flight to Shimla airport and then from there, you can hire a cab to reach the cafe. The distance between the cafe and the airport is 25 km and it will take an approximate time of 1 h to reach it.

By Rail: Shimla is well connected to other nearby places by rail and hence, you can catch a direct train to Shimla railway station. The distance between the station and the cafe is 8 km.

By Road: Book Cafe has a good road connectivity and hence, it is easily accessible by road.

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